Ourense on the Vía de la Plata
Camino de Santiago · albergues, accommodation, baggage transport & pilgrim guide
Everything you need for Ourense on the Vía de la Plata (Camino de Santiago): albergues and pilgrim hostels, hotels and private rooms, where to eat, baggage transport between stages, what to see, weather and practical tips for pilgrims walking to Santiago de Compostela.
About this town
Ourense is an important Galician city famed for its thermal springs, medieval quarter and Romanesque cathedral; it is a major services hub for pilgrims on the Vía de la Plata. The hot springs and riverside promenades make it a relaxing stop.
Where it's located
Situated in the province of Ourense in southeastern Galicia on the banks of the Miño River, the city is set in a river valley with steep terraces.
Points of interest
Recommended restaurants
- • Restaurante O Grelo — contemporary Galician cuisine
- • Pulpería A Feira — traditional octopus and Galician specialties
Pilgrim Albergues
Traditional pilgrim hostels — not bookable on Booking.com. Call or email to reserve, or arrive early (first-come, first-served).
Albergue Augas Quentes
€18
per night
18 beds
Situated across the Roman Bridge on the northern side of the city, this albergue is convenient for those looking to start their next stage early. It features air-conditioned mixed dormitories and a well-equipped kitchen, and is located just minutes away from the city's thermal promenade.
Rúa Vicente Risco, 34, 32001 Ourense
Check-in: 14:00–21:00; Check-out: 11:00
All year
Reservations accepted
Grelo Hostel
€18
per night
32 beds
A modern and friendly private hostel located near the San Francisco train station and a short walk from the historic center. It offers a cozy communal atmosphere, a buffet breakfast included in the price, and specialized services like secure bicycle storage and backpack transport reception.
Rúa Pena Trevinca, 40, 32005 Ourense
Check-in: 12:00–20:30; Check-out: 11:00
All year
Reservations accepted
Albergue de peregrinos de Ourense (Eligio Rivas Quintas)
€10
per night
42 beds
Located in a beautifully restored historic building in the old town, just 100 meters from the Cathedral and As Burgas thermal springs. This Xunta-run albergue is exclusively for pilgrims with a credential and features a vertical layout with modern facilities across several floors.
Rúa da Barreira, 12, 32005 Ourense
Check-in: 13:00–22:00; Check-out: 08:00
All year
First-come, first-served
💼 Baggage Transport
Use our global baggage transport integration service or the one below →Correos (El Camino con Correos)
Caminofácil
Jacotrans
Continue along the route
Quick answers about this town
How do I get to Ourense to start the last 100 km of the Vía de la Plata?
You can reach Ourense — a popular starting point for the last 100 km of the Vía de la Plata — by plane, train, bus or car. Many pilgrims begin here to qualify for the Compostela, which requires walking at least 100 km. The guide below details the nearest airports, train and bus connections, driving directions, and where the walking route begins. The nearest airport is Santiago de Compostela (SCQ), about 120 km away. From there, take a direct airport bus to the Santiago bus station, then transfer to a coach bound for Ourense. Ourense has a major high-speed rail station (Ourense-Empalme) served by Renfe AVE and Alvia train
Where to stay in Ourense?
Ourense offers a good range of accommodations for pilgrims, including three dedicated albergues. As a major city, there are also numerous hotels and guesthouses available throughout the urban center to suit different preferences.
What to see in Ourense?
Ourense is famous for its Romanesque cathedral and the ancient Roman bridge crossing the Miño river. You should also visit the As Burgas thermal springs, which are a relaxing highlight for pilgrims arriving in the city.
Where to eat in Ourense?
You can enjoy local specialties like octopus at Pulpería A Feira or choose contemporary Galician cuisine at Restaurante O Grelo. The city center is filled with many dining options that provide a great opportunity to sample regional dishes.
Where can pilgrims sleep in Ourense?
Ourense offers 3 albergues and pilgrim hostels (municipal, parochial, private and donativo), plus hotels and private rooms. Use the availability search on this page to reserve your stay on the Vía de la Plata.
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